USCG warning on preventing catastrophic fires from fuel hose chafing on towing vessels

Eda Zenic -

The United States Coast Guard has issued Safety Alert 09-24 following a serious fire incident on a towing vessel, spotlighting the danger of chafing on fuel hoses connected to main engines. Chafing on fuel hoses can lead to leaks, causing fuel to spray onto hot engine parts, which may then ignite and result in catastrophic fires. While it's standard practice to use chafing gear to protect vulnerable areas, there are currently no regulations specifically requiring chafing protection on fuel hoses in inspected towing vessels. In the recent incident, a fuel hose failure led to a fire that caused over $100,000 in damages and injured a crew member through smoke inhalation.

Key Risks and Challenges:

The Coast Guard highlights that while many towing vessels include fuel hose checks in their maintenance routines, inspections can be challenging. Fuel hoses are often located in hard-to-reach spots on main engines, and crew members may not always be trained to identify signs of deterioration, such as cracks, abrasions, or other wear. Without sufficient protection, damaged fuel hoses risk leaking flammable fuel onto the engine, which can ignite.

Coast Guard Recommendations:

To minimize fire risks on inspected towing vessels, the Coast Guard advises vessel owners and operators to adopt the following safety measures:

Install Fire-Retardant Hose Coverings and Chafing Protection:

  • Adding fire-resistant coverings on critical fuel hoses provides dual protection, both against chafing and by directing any potential leaks away from hot surfaces and into the bilge. Vessel owners are encouraged to standardize this equipment across their fleets to ensure uniform safety and make it easier for crew members to conduct routine inspections.

Conduct Thorough Inspections:

  • Regular and detailed inspections of fuel hoses should be part of the vessel’s standard maintenance plan. Inspections should be visual and look for any visible wear, such as cracks, abrasions, or signs of deterioration, which could lead to leaks. Early identification of wear allows for timely repairs or replacements before hoses become a fire hazard.

Install Flange Spray Shields or Anti-Spray Tape:

  • On pressurized fuel lines, especially those with flanges or threaded connections, it’s essential to install spray shields or anti-spray tape. These protective barriers help to contain any fuel leaks and prevent them from coming into contact with hot engine parts or other potential ignition sources, reducing the likelihood of fire.

Maintain Detailed Inspection Records:

  • Keeping comprehensive maintenance records is critical to ensure proper tracking of fuel hose conditions. Records should include details on hose inspections, any maintenance work performed, and the date for the next scheduled inspection. Tracking this data can help identify recurring issues, allowing for proactive management and addressing potential vulnerabilities before they escalate.

Implement Comprehensive Crew Training Programs:

  • Training crew members, particularly those involved in maintenance and engine operations, is essential to ensure effective fuel hose monitoring and maintenance. This training should be integrated into both the onboarding process and regular professional development programs. Crew members should learn how to identify signs of chafing and other wear, understand the serious risks of overlooking these issues, and follow specific inspection and maintenance protocols.

The Coast Guard emphasizes that although these measures may seem straightforward, they play a crucial role in protecting crew safety, maintaining the vessel’s seaworthiness, and preventing environmental harm from fuel fires. Implementing these preventative actions can greatly reduce the risk of severe incidents similar to the recent costly fire.